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Dehydroepiandrosterone

Also known as Androstenolone, Dehydroepiandrosterone Serum Test, DHEA Test

₹1519~~₹2600~~ 41% Off

You need to provide

Blood

This test is for

Male, Female

Test Preparation

Overnight fasting is preferred but not mandatory.

Understanding Dehydroepiandrosterone

What is Dehydroepiandrosterone?

The Dehydroepiandrosterone is a blood test that helps evaluate the levels of a dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), a hormone produced by the adrenal glands, gonads and brain. This hormone plays an important role in developing male and female sexual characteristics and maintaining overall hormonal balance.

DHEA changes to DHEA-S (DHEA-sulfate) in your adrenal glands and liver. Your body converts DHEAS into androgens (testosterone and androstenedione) and estrogen. Males make more testosterone, while females make more estrogen, but both the genders produce and use these hormones. DHEAS is critical for the development of male sexual characteristics during puberty and for reproduction in both the genders. DHEAS levels tend to peak around puberty and then naturally decline with age.

Your doctor may suggest a Dehydroepiandrosterone test along with other hormone tests if there are symptoms that may suggest an adrenal disorder, adrenal tumor or another problem. Also, it is often done for women who have signs and symptoms such as no menstrual periods and infertility and when a girl or woman has symptoms related to developing masculine physical characteristics. Infants or children with differences in sex development may also need a DHEAS test. Additionally, the test can be done when young boys show signs of precocious puberty.

Imbalances in DHEA levels can indicate various health problems, including adrenal dysfunction, hormonal imbalances, or conditions like Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), Addison’s disease etc.

An overnight fasting is preferred for the Dehydroepiandrosterone test but is not mandatory. Inform your doctor about all the medications or supplements that you may be taking as these may affect your test results, potentially requiring adjustments or temporary discontinuation before this test.

Lab test results may vary across laboratories. The interpretation of the test results requires expert guidance. Therefore, don't self-medicate solely based on these results. Always consult the doctor to understand your test results correctly.

What is Dehydroepiandrosterone used for?

The Dehydroepiandrosterone test is done:

To evaluate the function of adrenal glands.
To help diagnose congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) and enlargement of the adrenal glands (hyperplasia) in adults.
To investigate the underlying causes of symptoms such as excessive hair growth, acne, or irregular menstrual cycles in women
To investigate adrenal tumors, which can impact hormone production.
To evaluate androgen production (male hormone) in women
To help determine the cause of male physical characteristics (virilization) in women or early puberty (precocious) in boys
To assess the onset of puberty in both boys and girls.
As a part of investigation for hormonal disorders like Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) in women.
As a part of fertility assessment to explore potential factors affecting reproductive health.
To monitor the treatment response that may affect adrenal function.

What does Dehydroepiandrosterone measure?

The Dehydroepiandrosterone test measures the concentration of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) in the blood. This hormone is produced mainly by the adrenal glands, with smaller contributions from the ovaries in women and the testes in men. DHEA is vital for the development of secondary sexual characteristics during puberty and can be converted into more active androgens like testosterone and androstenedione, as well as into estrogens. DHEA levels can help doctors identify conditions like adrenal tumors, hirsutism, and other endocrine disorders, providing insights into hormonal balance within the body.

Interpreting Dehydroepiandrosterone results

Interpretations

Normal DHEA with normal androgen levels usually indicate that the adrenal gland is functioning normally
A high DHEA may indicate an adrenocortical tumor, Cushing's disease, adrenal cancer or adrenal hyperplasia. It is not diagnostic of a specific condition, further testing may then be required to confirm the diagnosis of the above mentioned conditions
DHEA may be elevated with polycystic ovarian syndrome
A low level of DHEA may be due to adrenal insufficiency, Addison's disease, hypopituitarism

Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Dehydroepiandrosterone

Frequently Asked Questions about Dehydroepiandrosterone

Q. What is the Dehydroepiandrosterone test used for?

The Dehydroepiandrosterone test measures levels of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) to assess adrenal gland function, diagnose hormonal imbalances, investigate conditions like adrenal tumors, and evaluate issues such as hirsutism or fertility problems.

Q. Why might my doctor recommend the Dehydroepiandrosterone test?

Your doctor may suggest this test if you have symptoms of adrenal insufficiency, such as fatigue or low blood pressure, or if you have symptoms related to excess androgens, like hirsutism, acne, or irregular menstrual cycles.

Q. How should I prepare for the Dehydroepiandrosterone test?

Usually, overnight fasting is preferred for this test, however, it is not mandatory. It is also advised to inform your doctor about any medications, supplements, or medical conditions you have, as these may affect the results.

Q. How is the Dehydroepiandrosterone test performed?

A healthcare provider will draw a blood sample from a vein in your arm. The blood sample is then sent to a laboratory, where it is analyzed for DHEA levels.

Q. Can DHEA levels fluctuate during the day?

Yes, DHEA levels can vary throughout the day. However, the test results provide an average value to assess overall levels.

Q. What do the test results mean?

High DHEA levels may indicate adrenal tumors or conditions that cause excess androgen production, while low levels could suggest adrenal insufficiency. Your doctor will interpret the results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.

Q. How often should I have this test?

The frequency of testing depends on your specific health conditions and symptoms. Your doctor will provide guidance based on your individual situation.

Q. How do age and gender affect DHEA levels?

DHEA levels peak in early adulthood and decline with age. Men generally have higher levels of DHEA than women.

Q. Can DHEA levels affect fertility?

Yes, abnormal DHEA levels can affect fertility in both men and women. High levels in women can be associated with PCOS, a common cause of infertility.

Q. How does Tata 1mg ensure accurate lab test results?

Tata 1mg ensures accurate lab test results through certified laboratories that use advanced technology and adhere to stringent quality control measures. This commitment to high standards guarantees reliable results.

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